After cancelling a weekend campaign appearance and leaving Donald Trump to deal with the backlash from the 2005 video alone, Mike Pence was campaigning again and praising Mr Trump's performance in Sunday's debate with Hillary Clinton.
Mr Pence noted that Mr Trump had apologised for his comments, adding: "We all fall short of the glory of God.
"I believe in forgiveness."
The 2005 video features Mr Trump bragging about groping women without their permission.
Mr Pence released a statement refusing to condone or defend his remarks, and urged Mr Trump to "show what is in his heart when he goes before the nation" during Sunday's debate.
Mr Trump said at the beginning of the 90-minute showdown with his Democratic rival: "I apologise to my family. I apologise to the American people.
"Certainly, I'm not proud of it. But this is locker-room talk."
